SHOOT LIKE A PRO
Kim Bunermann joins Matt Elliott on a shoot with top dog Merlin to learn how to run a business capturing pet portraits with character
For animal-loving photographers, having a furry friend posing in front of the camera may seem like a dream come true. However, in practice, it can be a lot more challenging than it appears. Animals are notoriously difficult subjects to work with, not only in photography, and have a shorter attention span than their human counterparts. And, whereas communication with your model is essential when taking human portraits, it is far more of a challenge to direct your animal subjects when photographing them.
Today, I am meeting Matt Elliott, an experienced pet photographer based in Bristol. Known for his ability to create photographs that capture the unique personalities of pets and the special bond between them and their owners, Matt is a pet owner himself, meaning that he understands the profound impact animals have on our lives. Matt has captured countless special moments with humans and their pets – from dogs and cats to horses and even snakes – so I can’t wait to see what he has in store for us today.
Before setting off to meet Matt, I notice that most of the images on his website (mattelliottpetphotography. com) have been taken outdoors. With the unreliable British weather adding yet another unpredictable element to the behaviour of his canine models, I wonder whether shooting in a studio environment, where variables such as the background and lighting can be easily controlled, might make his task easier. Being outdoors brings other distractions, such as other animals that could disrupt the pet’s attention.
I am curious to see how he copes with any distractions and ask him why he takes on such challenges. Matt warns me that I should come prepared for the weather, wearing rainproof clothes and sturdy footwear. Conditions in the few days before our shoot in early December have been a mixture of rain and cold temperatures.
Matt suggests that I join him on a shoot either early in the morning or towards the end of the day, advising me that these are the best times to get the perfect lighting conditions for atmospheric dog portraits.
Today’s subject
